Spinal arthritis is a type of inflammation of the joints in the spine. It can occur anywhere along the spine, but is most common in the lower back and neck.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of spinal arthritis. This is causes by wear and tear on your spine. Other causes of spinal arthritis may include infections, genetics, or autoimmune disorders, although often the cause is unknown.

Your age and being overweight or obese can increase your risk of spinal arthritis.

Symptoms are different for each person, but may include:

- Back and neck pain
- Spinal stiffness
- Swelling and tenderness over the spine
- Headaches
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- A grinding feeling when moving your spine
- Pain or numbness in your arms and legs

Treatment includes:

- Pain medications
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
- Surgery, in severe cases



 

 ## Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

  department###  [Neurosurgery](/departments/neurosurgery) 

 A department providing neurosurgical surgery and care, including evaluation and treatment for stroke, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and other conditions affecting the brain and n… 

 

 

  department###  [Orthopedic Surgery](/departments/orthopedic-surgery) 

 An orthopedic surgery program specializing in hip replacement surgery and knee replacement surgery. Our team provides advanced surgical techniques, personalized care plans, and co… 

 

 

  department###  [Spine Surgery](/departments/orthopedic-surgery/spine-surgery) 

 A program within the Department of Orthopedic Surgery where a spine surgeon provides spine surgery and treatment for spine conditions, including minimally invasive procedures, spi… 

 

 

  department###  [Neurosurgical Spine Surgery](/departments/neurosurgery/neurosurgical-spine-surgery) 

 A program within the Department of Neurosurgery providing advanced neurosurgery expertise, care, and treatment for conditions affecting the spine and spinal cord to help patients … 

 

 

  department###  [Musculoskeletal Medicine and Pain Management Program](/departments/orthopedic-surgery/musculoskeletal-medicine-and-pain-management-program) 

 An orthopedic surgery program specializing in musculoskeletal medicine, providing expert care from pain management specialists for bone, joint, and muscle conditions. We offer non…